The cook at my school when I was younger used to make these! They were always perfect.

Peanut butter caramel crunch bars are a delightful treat that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet, buttery flavor of caramel. This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of crunch in their desserts, thanks to the crispy rice cereal that adds texture and fun. I came up with this recipe on a rainy Saturday afternoon when I was craving something sweet but didn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. These bars are quick to make and are always a hit at family gatherings or as a sweet treat after a long day at work.

These peanut butter caramel crunch bars are quite rich, so they pair wonderfully with a light side like fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance out the sweetness. If you're serving them as a dessert at a party, consider offering a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream complements the crunchy, chewy bars perfectly. A cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk also makes a great accompaniment.

Servings: 12

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup unsalted butter
4 cups crispy rice cereal
1 cup caramel sauce
1/2 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, honey, and butter. Stir until melted and smooth.

Remove from heat and gently fold in the crispy rice cereal until well coated.

Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Pour the caramel sauce over the top, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle chopped peanuts and chocolate chips over the caramel layer if using.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Once set, remove from the dish and cut into bars.

Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the bars for a glossy finish before serving.

For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. You can also add a layer of melted chocolate on top of the caramel for a more decadent treat. If you're looking to add a bit of saltiness, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel layer before it sets. For a holiday twist, add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the peanut butter mixture.